PUTTING NEW LIFE INTO PRACTICE
... and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Ephesians 4:24 (NIV)
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
I once opened a box containing a new bicycle, expecting to assemble it quickly and hit the road. Unfortunately, something important was missing: the assembly instructions. What I expected to take a few minutes consumed the better part of the day. I had the parts in front of me, but figuring out how they fit together was frustrating.
Being told what to do without being shown how can leave us feeling stuck. Thankfully, Paul doesn't leave Christians guessing. After calling us to put on the new self, he gives specific instructions for how that new life should shape our relationships.
In Ephesians 4:25-32, falsehood gives way to truth because we belong to one body. We address anger promptly and refuse to let it become an opportunity for the devil. Stealing is replaced with honest work—and the goal extends beyond providing for ourselves to include sharing with those in need. Our speech changes too. Before speaking, we consider what will help the person listen. Words that tear down are replaced with words that strengthen, encourage and give grace. Paul also calls us to put away bitterness, rage, slander and malice. In their place, we practice kindness, compassion and forgiveness. These instructions reach into ordinary moments: an argument at home, a conversation at work or a response to someone who has disappointed us. Those moments reveal whether we are living from the new self God has created.
Our choices matter to God. Paul warns us against grieving the Holy Spirit, who has sealed us for redemption. The God who has secured our future cares about how we treat people today. We follow these instructions because we have received grace. Paul grounds forgiveness in what Christ has already done for us: just as in Christ God forgave you.
Which relationship most needs evidence of that grace through your honesty, encouragement, generosity or forgiveness?
APPLICATION: Read Ephesians 4:25-32 and identify one instruction you need to practice in a specific relationship. Take that step today: tell the truth, offer encouragement, meet a need or extend forgiveness.
PRAYER: Father, thank You for the forgiveness I have received in Christ. Give me a tender heart and help me reflect Your grace in how I speak, work and treat others. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?